The study was done by a team at the University of Toronto in Ontario, Canada.

It is believed that IF turns white fat, which stores excess energy (calories) but is linked to obesity and type 2 diabetes, into brown fat. which burns energy.

After 12 to 14 hours of fasting, the body shifts from burning glucose to burning fat.In the University of Toronto experiment, one group of mice was fed daily, while the other wasn't fed for a day, then was fed for 2 days.

After 4 months, they'd eaten the same number of calories, but the intermittent fasting group weighed much less, plus their glucose metabolism was more stable and their insulin sensitivity improved.

Studies with humans are sparse, but the scientists who have done animal research say they are urgently needed, given the obesity epidemic in America.

Again, it's best to talk with your healthcare provider before trying any new diet plan. You want to make sure it's safe for you.

If you exercise, Dr. Charlie Seltzer says the plan has to be modified. He suggests having a small snack before and a low-calorie, protein shake after working out. And in some cases, a branched-chain amino acid supplement drink can help. He says you can still save the majority of your calories for later in the day when you are relaxed.

But this plan is not for people looking to build more muscle mass or improve sports performance.